News
Qeshm Island Transforms into Iranian Missile Hub Amid Regional Tensions
Qeshm Island, once a tourism destination in the Strait of Hormuz, has become a strategic military site with underground missile facilities. The island's transformation reflects Iran's asymmetric naval strategy to control the Strait, a critical route for global oil and gas transport.
Qeshm Island, located in the Strait of Hormuz, has transitioned from a tourist destination to a strategic military hub, according to Al-Jazeera. The island, approximately 1,445 square kilometres, is now home to underground silos, missile facilities, and fast-attack boats. This transformation allows Iran to exert greater control over the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for global oil and gas transport. Qeshm is central to Iran's asymmetric naval strategy, enabling Tehran to threaten or halt shipping through the strait. The island is located 22 km south of Bandar Abbas. Its free trade-industrial zone now contains military installations. The island's population of 148,000, mainly Sunni Muslims speaking the Bandari dialect, face increasing pressure due to the military escalation.
Key Facts
- Qeshm Island is located in the Strait of Hormuz.
- The island has transformed into an 'underground missile city'.
- Qeshm Island is approximately 1,445 sq km (558 sq miles).
- The island is central to Iran's asymmetric naval strategy.
- Qeshm's free trade-industrial zone contains underground silos and missile facilities.
- The island is located 22 km south of Bandar Abbas.
- The population of Qeshm is 148,000 residents.
- The Strait of Hormuz is a vital route for global oil and gas transport.
Primary Source
Research Sources
- The Times of India — Inside Qeshm: How Iran turned a holiday island into a strategic missile hub - The Times of India